Regional Safety and Security Director

Regional Safety and Security Director

International Rescue Committee (IRC)

October 30, 2026January 1, 2027Ethiopia
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a mission to deliver lasting impact, the IRC aims to help millions of people regain control of their futures and strengthen their communities. The organization is committed to being a force for humanity, and its employees are driven by a passion for making a positive difference in the lives of those in need.

Job Overview:
The Regional Safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Director (RSSD) plays a critical role in the East Africa region, providing strategic leadership for safety, security, and humanitarian access. This senior leadership position involves setting and implementing a comprehensive strategy to anticipate, analyze, and mitigate risks while safeguarding staff and assets. The RSSD is responsible for enabling principled humanitarian access and ensuring the continuity of IRC's operations in complex and high-risk environments. As a key advisor to the Regional Vice President (RVP), the RSSD collaborates closely on decisions that impact IRC's presence and operational continuity. The role requires a deep understanding of security dynamics across the region and the ability to mentor and build the capabilities of IRC staff to operate safely and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The RSSD's responsibilities include contributing to regional strategy and decision-making as a member of the Regional Management Team, serving as the principal safety and security advisor to the RVP, and partnering with Country Directors to align safety and security with operational priorities. The RSSD leads the identification, analysis, and mitigation of safety and security risks, ensuring compliance with IRC's global standards. They are responsible for developing and implementing context-specific security risk management strategies, guiding country programs in emergency preparedness, and shaping safety and security policies that integrate Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (GEDI) principles. Additionally, the RSSD enables humanitarian access across country programs, strengthens access teams, and collaborates with IRC units to address violations of the Code of Conduct. The role also involves recruitment and selection of key positions, promoting staff well-being, and designing capacity-building plans for regional training initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 10 years of experience in international humanitarian assistance, with a proven ability to lead security management operations. Prior experience in East Africa and strong knowledge of regional dynamics are essential. Fluency in English is required, and proficiency in a relevant regional language such as Arabic, Amharic, Somali, or Swahili is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate a grounding in humanitarian principles, NGO culture, and gender-sensitive security management. Strong interpersonal skills, the ability to influence without authority, and a capacity for mentoring and coaching are crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
While the specific educational background is not explicitly stated, it is generally expected that candidates will have a relevant degree in fields such as international relations, security studies, or a related discipline that supports the responsibilities of the position.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of experience in international humanitarian assistance, with a focus on security management. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to analyze complex security dynamics and incidents, as well as experience in mentoring and building the capacities of teams in high-risk environments. Willingness to travel up to 40% of the time is also necessary.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in a relevant regional language, such as Arabic, Amharic, Somali, or Swahili, is advantageous and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is open to both national and international applicants, with a preference for national candidates from the region. The IRC offers a competitive national salary scale and benefits package, which may include compensation, return flights, shipping allowances, temporary housing, and relocation allowances for eligible candidates. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that values diversity and encourages qualified women to apply. IRC emphasizes the importance of a safe work environment free from discrimination and harassment, and all staff are expected to adhere to the organization's core values and professional standards.
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